How to Learn Software Engineering Online

If you’re starting to learn a new skill, you can find dozens of tips and resources online; learning software engineering is no different. Software engineering is a robust field focusing on the design and development of computer software. The demand for Software Engineers continues to accelerate, and many pursue this career because it is a creative, flexible, and high-demand field. 

Are you interested in learning software engineering skills and concepts? There are plenty of options at your fingertips. From free tutorials to live classes, you can decide how to learn in a way that works best for you. 

What is Software Engineering?

Software Engineering is an engineering branch focused on designing, developing, and testing new technologies to solve real-world problems. Software Engineers bring comprehensive knowledge of programming, design, and engineering principles to build software. These computer science professionals can create web applications, mobile applications, video games, robots, operating systems, and network systems that we use daily! 

Software engineering is a collaborative and broad field. The design and development of software solutions will require you to work with other technical and non-technical professionals. These can include engineers, developers, scientists, designers, and other creative and technical professionals. Additionally, Software Engineers can specialize in different areas of the user experience, depending on their interest.

Learn more about what software engineering is and why you should learn it. 

What Can You Do with Software Engineering?

Our society continues to rely more heavily on computer-driven processes. Software Engineers are the brain power behind these processes and create the programs and applications we use daily. Software Engineers use programming languages to develop software programs and applications. Programming skills are sought after across fields and sectors, and you can do many cool things with this skill set! 

Low-level programming languages, such as assembly and machine language, can be used to create system software. System software is a general software that develops and runs other application software. A few examples of system software are operating systems, like Mac OS and Android, and video game systems, like the Nintendo system software, which allow video games to run.

You can also create application software using programming languages—software engineers design application software to carry out a specific function. For example, Spotify is an application software that allows you to listen to music or podcasts. Engineers use high-level programming languages like Java and Python to write application software.

Live Online Software Engineering Training

Live online classes are a popular class option if you want to learn software engineering skills. Online learning offers greater flexibility to students who can complete their classes from anywhere without worrying about a busy commute. Additionally, because students can join from anywhere, online classes typically feature a more diverse student body, and you can benefit from a broader range of perspectives in your learning. A drawback of online education is that you may experience less social interaction with classmates and instructors, which can be difficult for those who thrive in more hands-on learning environments. Additionally, some students need help engaging in online learning because of the many distractions experienced at home or in the office. 

If online learning is the best option for you, Noble Desktop offers several live online software engineering classes. Noble’s Live Online classes are taught via Zoom and provided in real-time. You can ask your professor a question, receive instant feedback on classwork, and engage with instructors and classmates via the chat option. Noble’s Classes Near Me tool also features live online software engineering courses from other top online learning providers. You can use the tool to compare costs, class duration and time, and experience level across the schools and courses.

On-Demand Software Engineering Classes

Are you considering enrolling in a self-paced software engineering class? This learning option is a popular alternative for those juggling busy personal and professional schedules. These courses allow students to balance their work and home life without the added stress of meeting deadlines or following a strict class schedule. However, a drawback of on-demand classes is that because there’s no formal routine or real-time interaction with instructors and peers, students may become demotivated to complete their studies and fall behind. 

On-demand class content is available to students upfront, and they can decide the pacing needed to work through. Most on-demand classes cater to beginner and intermediate-level learners. Classes range from a few hours to a few months worth of content to work through. Self-paced courses can vary in pricing, and while most cost, a few free options are available. Some software engineering courses are available through a subscription service that allows students to pay upfront or pay as they go. On-demand classes offer a lot of flexibility to students and are an excellent alternative to in-person and online classes.

Free Intro Courses & Tutorials

Are you still trying to decide whether to dive into an immersive software engineering bootcamp? You should consider enrolling in one of Noble’s free introductory software engineering seminars, which cover various topics related to software engineering. For instance, the Intro to Front End Web Development will teach you the programming languages relevant to building the parts of the websites the user sees, including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. 

You can also find free Software Engineering classes from other online learning providers. Udemy offers a handful of courses that will teach you fundamental programming languages, such as JavaScript, HTML, and CSS. Coursera also offers several free classes related to software engineering, including an intro to Node JS and Express course. Several free tutorials on YouTube cover web development, programming languages, and web design. 

Read about more free Software Engineering videos and online tutorials.

Comparing Online Learning with In-Person Learning 

As you research software engineering classes, you will find that in-person and online learning options are available. If you’re struggling to decide which is better for you, look no further. Both options have advantages and disadvantages, depending on your personal learning style and preference. Below, we’ll list a few points to remember as you decide the best way to learn software engineering skills. 

In-person education opportunities are popular for those who thrive in traditional classroom settings. These classes are typically taught by expert professionals in a classroom, allowing you to engage in real-time with your instructors and ask questions. Additionally, you will be able to interact with your classmates by collaborating on projects. People also enjoy in-person classes because there are far fewer distractions, like barking dogs or tech issues, and they can focus solely on their lessons uninterrupted.

On the contrary, in-person classes can be an inaccessible option for those who live in more rural areas and cannot commute to these classes. Making time for an in-person class can also be difficult for someone juggling many personal responsibilities, such as a full-time job or childcare duties. 

If you prefer the convenience of learning software engineering skills from the comfort of your home or office, you may opt for online learning. Online learning is a popular option for those who require more flexibility in their schedules to balance classes and personal responsibilities, such as work or family. If you need a high level of flexibility, some programs are offered on-demand, allowing students to work through their lessons and coursework conveniently. 

Like in-person learning, virtual learning comes with its own disadvantages, too. Online learning can sometimes feel isolating, as it can be challenging to develop a strong relationship with instructors and classmates when you can only access them in a virtual space. Online courses can also encounter technical issues, disrupting lessons and keeping you from actively engaging. Finally, online courses, especially self-paced ones, require self-discipline and motivation to complete them. Online courses don’t have the same structured learning and accountability systems as in-person courses, which can be challenging. 

Tips to Succeed when Learning Software Engineering Online

Transitioning to learning online can be difficult for those more accustomed to in-person learning environments. But don’t fret - many elements of online learning emulate in-person classes, including real-time access to instructors. If you’re serious about virtual education, there are several things you can do as an aspiring programmer to ensure you’re effectively learning the skills needed to be a successful Software Engineer. 

• Create a regular, productive learning space: A benefit of online learning is that you can tune in from anywhere; however, distractions can often plague these spaces. Creating a designated learning area in your home or office can help keep you focused and minimize distractions. Ensure this space is quiet and free of clutter so you can engage with your lessons and access notes or other needed supplies. 

• Develop Goals and a Daily Learning Routine: As famous kids author Sean Covey said, “We become what we repeatedly do.” If you want to learn to code, you must set clear goals for what you want to achieve and have a daily routine to meet those goals. Doing so will help you stay consistent in your studies and prevent burnout as you slowly work to build your software engineering skills and knowledge. 

• Find a Support Network: Learning online does not have to be isolating; you will benefit from connecting with others as you learn to code. You can build a connection by interacting with peers in the classroom. Additionally, there are support networks and forums out there aimed at helping people learn to code.

Conquer Software Engineering with Hands-on Training at Noble Desktop

Noble Desktop offers an assortment of Software Engineering classes that will teach you the skills needed to become a Software Engineer. You can join Noble’s courses in-person in Manhattan or virtually from the comfort of your home or office. These courses feature small class sizes led by expert instructors with experience in the field. In addition, Noble classes feature a free retake option that will allow you to retake a course within a year for no extra fees. 

If you want to be a more well-rounded web developer, consider enrolling in either the  Software Engineering Certificate or the Full-Stack Web Development Certificate. Both courses will prepare you to build both the front end and back end of websites. By the end of the Full-Stack Web Development Certificate, students can use programming languages, such as HTML & CSS, JavaScript, and React, to develop and build web applications. If you have a few extra weeks, the Software Engineering Certificate is more comprehensive and will teach you Python, a popular programming language for web development, data analysis, and automation. 

Noble’s Python Developer Certificate program is the perfect course for someone with a shorter-time frame looking to learn a highly used programming language. This certificate will take you from a beginner to an intermediate Python programmer in a few weeks. This course will prepare you for success as a Python Developer, Back End Developer, or Software Engineer. 

If you’re interested in working with data in your career, Noble Desktop’s Data Science Certificate is a good option for you. This immersive training will equip you with skills ranging from Python programming to machine learning models.

Key Takeaways

• Software Engineers use advanced knowledge of programming and mathematics to develop and design software, such as web and mobile applications and video games.
• Live online instruction replicates an in-person learning experience and gives students real-time access to instructors and classmates.
• An on-demand course is an excellent option for students balancing busy schedules and enjoying learning with students from various backgrounds. 
• If you want to succeed in an online course, follow these three tips:
• Create a regular, productive workspace 
• Develop goals and a daily routine 
• Find a support network
• Noble Desktop offers several in-person and online comprehensive software engineering bootcamps and certificate programs, including the Software Engineering Certificate, Full-Stack Web Development Certificat e, and Python Developer Certificate.